The Heart Institute at Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point continues its Tuesday Tutorials programming commemorating National Heart Month through March with “When Do You Need Open Heart Surgery & What...

Reducing Your Risk of Chromosomal Abnormalities

The risk of passing a chromosomal abnormality on to your baby increases with the mother’s age. Although, research has shown that most women in their late 30s and 40s can have a healthy pregnancy and a normal, healthy baby.

If you are over 35 and trying to conceive, consider the following guidelines to increase your chances of a successful, healthy pregnancy and baby:

See a doctor around three months before you try to conceive to review your medical conditions, family medical history, medications, and immunizations.

Take a prenatal vitamin containing 400 micrograms of folic acid daily about three months before you become pregnant and through the first month of pregnancy to help prevent neural tube defects.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.